JOB SUMMARY:

The Specialist is accountable to provide subject matter expertise and administration of a specialized function, leads strategic sourcing, contracting and supplier management for inventory, maintenance, repair and operating goods, and other materials that support SaskPower’s operational and project delivery requirements. As a member of SaskPower’s management team, this position is responsible to act as a central point of contact in the management and administration of strategic and operational functions, providing expert advice and direction that aligns with departmental and corporate goals and objectives.  

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Plan, research, develop, evaluate and implement processes, policies and procedures utilized for the development of strategies and business initiatives that address the organization’s requirements
• Act as a subject matter expert in a specialized function to develop, implement, coach and assist management staff in the administration and interpretation of corporate policies; providing advice that is appropriate, practical and consistent with relevant legislation, regulations, laws and/or industry standards
• Identify new business solutions and operational efficiencies, while providing recommendations which have a significant impact on SaskPower’s business operations and strategies
• Lead and/or participate in cross-functional projects to provide functional expertise for corporate and  departmental strategic planning initiatives
• Represent the department and prepare and present material to internal and external audiences as required
• Maintain knowledge of industry developments and best practices related to area of specialization and adapt them to SaskPower’s operational environment
• Provide leadership and direction to project teams and/or assigned staff as required
• Develop sourcing and category strategies for inventory of goods and materials using demand, spend, supplier market, contract and operational data.
• Lead requests for proposals, requests for quotations, tenders, proposal evaluations and commercial negotiations, including multiyear supply agreements with original equipment manufacturers, distributors and other goods suppliers.
• Develop, negotiate and administer contracts for inventory, maintenance, repair and operating goods, and other materials to support operational requirements and continuity of supply, in accordance with corporate procurement policies and applicable requirements.
• Manage assigned contracts through their lifecycle, including amendments, renewals, pricing reviews, delivery requirements, supplier commitments, performance measures, risks, issues and transition or replacement planning.
• Coordinate supplier performance, issue resolution and improvement activities with Supplier Relationship Management, Inventory Control, Operations, project teams and other internal partners.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Degree in Business Administration, Commerce or other related equivalent AND/OR;
• Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP) designation would be considered an asset AND/OR;
• Five (5) years of related procurement and strategic sourcing experience
• Team player with the ability to build and maintain strategic relationships both internal and external to SaskPower
• Demonstrated experience developing, negotiating and administering competitive procurements and complex goods or material supply agreements.
• Experience with inventory, maintenance, repair and operating materials, utility operations, industrial supply chains or another asset intensive environment would be considered an asset.
• Working knowledge of SAP S/4HANA procurement and materials management, or comparable enterprise procurement systems, including purchasing master data and contract or outline agreement processes.
• Demonstrated ability to identify and implement process improvements, automation and standardized workflows in a procurement or supply chain environment.
• Ability to analyze procurement, contract, supplier, and operational data and translate findings into practical recommendations. Experience with Power BI or comparable reporting tools would be considered an asset.
• Knowledge of category management, supplier market analysis, supplier performance management, continuity of supply and procurement risk management.
• Results oriented thinker, with the ability to manage and provide advice regarding complex and confidential issues with sensitivity and professionalism
• Excellent analytical, research and problem solving skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work and manage in a changing environment
• Excellent facilitation, project management and decision making skills
• Ability to foster a culture focused on safety, innovation and teamwork
• Demonstrated skill in SaskPower’s competencies
• Must have a continuing record of professional development  

A suitable combination of relevant education and experience may also be considered